![]() The SX AWD bridges the gap between the 2.5T-powered X-Line EX AWD and X-Line SX Prestige AWD trims.īy the numbers, our Sorento SX lived up to Kia's hype: The 2022 model is quicker at the track and a smidge more fuel efficient than its 2016 counterpart. We also bypassed the default front-drive setup and splurged for all-wheel drive however, we aren't fans of the busy X-Line exterior kit coupled to most all-wheel-drive 2022 Sorentos, so we settled on the SX model. After all, we were anxious to find out if the performance and fuel-economy figures of the most powerful Sorento were as drastically improved as Kia claimed. We skipped right past the Sorento's entry-level 191-hp naturally aspirated 2.5-liter inline-four, as well as the available gasoline-electric hybrid and plug-in-hybrid powertrains, in opting for the turbo engine. The forced-induction four's well of low-end torque and quick-shifting transmission meant the lighter fourth-gen Sorento promised both better straight-line performance and fuel economy than its six-cylinder forebear, with our SX's EPA-rated combined fuel economy up 5 mpg over its 2016 counterpart. Though slightly down on power, the turbo four's 311 pound-feet of torque bettered that of the old V-6 by 59 pound-feet, with the whole of the four-cylinder engine's twist available at a low 1700 revs-3600 rpm lower than the V-6's torque peak. ![]() Notably, for 2021, Kia had ditched the old model's flagship powertrain-a 290-hp 3.3-liter V-6 mated to a six-speed automatic transmission-replacing it with a turbocharged 281-hp 2.5-liter inline-four paired to an eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox. This 2022 Sorento, however, promised to improve upon many of its predecessor's shortcomings. The 2016 Sorento impressed us with its quiet and comfortable cabin, high-quality interior materials, and ergonomic controls, even if its driving dynamics were uninspired. Our time with the previous Sorento made us eager to bring on the new version for a long-term stay. The smaller of Kia's two mid-size three-row SUVs, it stood in contrast to the largely trouble-free experience we've had with other Kia models, including a 2022 Carnival, 2020 Telluride, and 2016 Sorento. Bluntly speaking, our experience with the Sorento was disappointing. Kia must have held our long-term Sorento by its powertrain before dipping it in the river Styx, because the turbocharged four-cylinder engine and dual-clutch automatic transmission were its Achilles' heel during its 40,000-mile stay with us.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |